"German is a tough language for Spaniards, just as Spanish is for the Dutch.

"I compare his spell with Munich to mine at Barcelona. What I said at the very beginning to the players was: 'Correct me if I say something wrong.'

"Then the social guys on the team will help you. So you get a faster connection [with the squad]. The German players are like that, so that will help."

Van Gaal also pointed to the tactical decisions Guardiola must make with the current Bayern side, highlighting the different attacking approaches adopted by previous boss Jupp Heynckes and the Spaniard during his time at Barcelona.

"Most important is what he will do with the Bayern style of play. Jupp Heynckes and I have spent the last few years playing with a No.10," he added.